GNNSJ Leeds History

The Jatha was first formed in Leeds by His Holiness Sant Baba Puran Singh Kericho-Wale on the 11th August 1974. Baba Ji was at his son in law’s house (Sardar Sohan Singh Birdi at 53 The Avenue, Alwoodley, Leeds LS17 7BL) after receiving a Divine message he announced to the Sangat (congregation) “today is the start of a new Jatha” and he gave the name ‘NISHKAM SEWAK JATHA’. He appointed Bhai Rajinder Singh Bharj as first Jathedar along with 5 Paathi’s (reciter’s of gurbani) and 10 Sewadars in the presence of some members listed below:

It was also agreed that Harbans Singh Sagoo our current Jathedar to assist Rajinder Singh Bharj in his role. In later years, following further discussion with Bhai Sahib Norang Singh and Giani Amolak Singh, Baba Ji added the words GURU NANAK to the Jatha’s title to give it the full title, GURU NANAK NISHKAM SEWAK JATHA. (Members performing selfless service belonging to Guru Nanak)

From 1974 – 1986 GNNSJ preached/practiced in many existing Leeds Gurdwaras contributing tremendously to the Sikh community in Leeds.

The GNNSJ Leeds Gurdwara was established in December 1986 when the Ringtons Tea Factory was purchased and converted to our Gurdwara. On the 5th January 1987 the first Sri Akhand Paath in the Gurdwara was held celebrating our Guru Gobind Singh’s Parkash Utsav Gurpurb.

Some Great Achievements of GNNSJ Leeds

• Establishment of Gurudwara GNNSJ December 1986

• Mid nineties establish suitable community venue in Leeds for dispersing of cremated ashes of Sikhs/Hindus.